Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan’s most illustrious castles and an iconic symbol of Kumamoto. It has a storied history spanning 400 years, beginning in the late sixteenth century with Kato Kiyomasa, the first feudal lord of the Kumamoto domain. The castle has never fallen and is best known as the stage of a history-defining battle in 1877, that pitted imperial forces against disaffected samurai.
The castle grounds are vast and planted with scores of cherry trees that bloom in clouds of pink in spring. Some structures remain from the original citadel, while others such as the elegant Honmaru-goten Palace and the imposing Tenshukaku castle keeps have been beautifully reconstructed.
The 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake caused severe damage to many of the fortress’ ramparts and structures. Restoration work is ongoing and the castle is being opened up to visitors in phases. Kumamoto Castle has become a symbol of both strength and resilience.
Begin a visit to Kumamoto, here, at its heart.
From the idyllic grounds of Suizenji Jojuen Garden and the peaceful shoreline of Lake Ezu to the restorative waters of Ueki Onsen, Kumamoto is a city in touch with nature.
A short ride on the city tram will take you from Kumamoto Castle, in the heart of the city, to the Suizenji Jojuen Garden, a traditional strolling garden from the early seventeenth century. The garden fans outwards from a crystal-clear, spring-fed pond. Lake Ezu is within walking distance of Suizenji Jojuen. It is popular for boating and fishing, walking, jogging, and relaxing.
On the outskirts of the city, thermal waters bubble up into the baths of Ueki Onsen. The water is slightly alkaline and leaves the skin feeling beautifully smooth and soft.
Relax, refresh, or rejuvenate in a scenic setting within the city.
The main sights within the city are linked by a simple tram network that has been in operation since 1924. The streetcars, which range from classic-retro to sleek-modern, serve Kumamoto Station, Kumamoto Castle, Suizenji Jojuen Garden, and the city’s shopping and entertainment districts. One-day passes give unlimited rides all day long and make getting around easy.
Take in the city from one of its iconic trams.
Kumamoto has mineral-rich groundwater and fertile soils that stretch across the region. The result is a farm-to-table-based food culture and an abundance of fresh fruit, vegetables, and rice. The restaurants in Kumamoto City use fresh, locally sourced ingredients in their menus, to satisfy a range of tastes from traditional Japanese cuisine and regional specialties to French and Italian.
Be sure to try Kumamoto’s local dishes including Kumamoto ramen, lotus root stuffed with mustard (karashi renkon), and horsemeat sliced thinly and served raw with a dipping sauce (basashi).
Kumamoto is one of the the nation's leading producers of watermelons, melons, eggplant, and tangerines. Consider visiting one of the city’s farms for fruit picking and other agricultural experiences.
Come with an empty stomach and a healthy appetite.
There is no need to buy mineral water in Kumamoto City, simply turn on the faucet. The city is located above a natural groundwater aquifer that provides enough fresh water to supply the entire population of the city. This natural water source is recharged by rainwater that falls on Mt. Aso and over paddy fields along the Shirakawa River.
Apart from tasting great, the groundwater supports life in the city and adds to the freshness and flavor of the produce from its farms. The city leads numerous initiatives to preserve this precious resource for future generations.
Stay hydrated and enjoy being part of something sustainable on your visit.
Kumamoto City is a major transport hub and a gateway destination for exploring many leading Kyushu destinations. Shinkansen services connect Kumamoto Station with Hakata Station (Fukuoka) in around 30 minutes, and Kagoshima Station (Kagoshima) in less than an hour.
Using a combination of Shinkansen and regular rail services, Saga Station (Saga) can be reached in a little over an hour. Excursions to Nagasaki City by rail take around 2.5 hours. Alternatively, ferries taking an hour, operate between Kumamoto City and Shimabara City, in eastern Nagasaki.
For trips inland from Kumamoto City, bus and rail services link the city with the Aso area (Kumamoto), and destinations such as Beppu and Yufuin in Oita, and Takachiho in Miyazaki.
Base yourself in Kumamoto City to make the most of your time in Kyushu.
